China’s Yutong Introduces Advanced D14 Bus Coaches to African Market

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China’s Yutong Bus has launched its next-generation D14 coach aimed at the African market during an event in Tanzania. The company announced that the new D14 model features significant space and design enhancements compared to earlier models, which have been in use in Africa for over twenty years.

During this period, Yutong has developed a strong presence on the continent, establishing a sales and service network in nearly 50 countries and selling nearly 22,000 buses. The previous generation of Yutong’s front-engine buses gained a solid reputation for reliability, with some vehicles surpassing 1 million kilometers while maintaining consistent performance.

A statement from Yutong on March 20 highlighted that one Tanzanian transport company experienced rapid growth after integrating Yutong buses into its fleet, expanding from a few vehicles to over 50. Local transport operators have expressed their preference for Yutong, citing its value and reliability even when faced with lower-priced alternatives.

Following the successful launch of the D14 in Tanzania, Yutong plans to broaden its reach throughout Africa. This initiative reflects Yutong’s commitment to providing dependable, high-performance transportation solutions tailored to the evolving needs of Africa’s passenger transport sector.

The new D14 is designed to accommodate up to 77 passengers comfortably, enhancing operational efficiency and revenue potential for operators. Its redesigned compartment offers 40% more space than the previous generation, now holding 15.5 cubic meters, addressing the demand for increased storage in passenger transport vehicles.

With LED headlights that last up to 50,000 hours while consuming just 30W of power, the D14 ensures reduced heat output and improved safety during nighttime driving. Inside, the cabin focuses on comfort, featuring an upgraded dashboard, additional storage, and a fully air-suspended driver’s seat for better support on long journeys.

Performance and durability are also priorities for the D14, which delivers up to 410 hp for superior capability on various terrains and long distances. Yutong emphasised that the D14 is built to endure Africa’s challenging road conditions, equipped with advanced anti-corrosion technology for high temperatures and dust. Its structure is designed for longevity, rated for two million kilometers or 20 years, and features a high-strength, 700 MPa steel frame that is three times stronger than standard steel, ensuring maximum passenger safety in rollovers.

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Yutong’s extensive service network across Africa includes 80 authorised service stations, 116 on-site customer support locations, and over 10 mobile service teams. Additionally, the company operates spare parts distribution centers in Tanzania and South Africa, facilitating rapid parts procurement and emergency dispatch to neighboring countries. Yutong’s self-operated service station in Tanzania spans 2,600 square meters and is specifically designed to maintain high service standards. It has served approximately 200 clients and managed around 1,451 service cases, with an inventory of over 500 essential spare parts to ensure timely support for local operators.